Nigeria’s electoral framework may soon undergo a significant shift as lawmakers move to extend voting rights to inmates held in correctional centres, a proposal that is already stirring nationwide debate about inclusion and democratic fairness.
The plan forms part of a broader overhaul of the country’s electoral laws, with the National Assembly pushing amendments designed to close long-standing gaps that have affected election credibility and administration.
Speaking ahead of lawmakers’ return from the Christmas recess, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele said the proposed Electoral Bill, 2025, introduces far-reaching changes intended to modernise Nigeria’s election process and strengthen public confidence.
According to him, the draft legislation contains more than 20 major reforms that clearly distinguish it from previous electoral laws.
He explained that the goal is to address persistent operational challenges while responding to public demands for a more transparent and inclusive system.
“At the heart of this reform is the belief that every eligible Nigerian vote must count, regardless of circumstance,” Bamidele said.
“Our democracy can only grow stronger when participation is widened and the rules are clear.”
One of the most notable provisions in the bill formally recognises the right of eligible inmates to vote.
The proposal also places a legal obligation on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register qualified prisoners across all correctional facilities in the country.
Moreover, the bill seeks to tackle election funding delays by compelling the early release of funds for general elections. Under the proposed law, election funds must be made available at least one year before polling day.
Bamidele argued that this measure would reduce uncertainty, limit last-minute bottlenecks and reinforce INEC’s institutional independence.
“Early funding removes needless pressure and allows proper planning, which ultimately protects the integrity of the process,” he said.
Furthermore, lawmakers believe the reforms will enhance political party accountability and improve overall election management, especially in areas of logistics, voter registration and vote security.
As deliberations continue, the proposed changes are expected to trigger robust discussions among civil society groups, political parties and the wider public, with many watching closely to see how the reforms could reshape Nigeria’s democratic landscape ahead of future elections.